Inspiring women — Shuh Lee and her happy colorful arts and crafts
When we discovered Shuh Lee's universe we immediately felt the world was a bright and beautiful place where nothing could ever go wrong.
Shuh is a multifaceted artist we love and we are lucky enough to have her with us today!
Let's meet Shuh!
Ahoy Shuh! Welcome to our journal, we are so happy to have you here today with us! Could you tell us your story? Who are you, what do you do, where are you from…?
I grew up in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I have been fascinated by the arts since I was a child, I would always draw or do something crafty when I had free time. I remember contributing artworks regularly for my club's newsletter (I was in the Interact club) or competing in local art competitions. Without much thought, but with lots of passion, I took up arts in high school and college in Kuala Lumpur; before leaving home to complete my Fashion Degree at RMIT University in Melbourne.
After years of learning design, I decided to take a break and worked full time in retail to gain some work experience. Earning a regular income was great but I felt something was missing in my life, I wasn't doing anything creative. The turning point was when I reopened my sewing kit and started stitching again. I then slowly began to drawing and painting. I realised from that moment on, that this is what I want and meant to do for life. Even now, I still feel it's been the right move as I still feel so excited about creating a print/artwork or working with my hands on stitching work or ceramics.
We love how creative you are! Have you always had this artistic inner world, since you were a kid?
Yes! I remember sitting down in the dining area and really enjoying drawing or doing art projects during my free time. I also remember really enjoying flipping through my aunt's fashion magazines and dreaming of becoming a fashion designer one day, which I think I have achieved in some respects.
You are a multifaceted artist and design beautiful and useful objects for a happy and colorful life. Textile, ceramics, stationery… Is it hard to learn the peculiarities of each material? What do you personally prefer?
I don't think it's hard to work with these materials but I guess like all good things, it requires patience and practice to produce a piece that I am proud of. I must say I have my 'moments' with each material! But, luckily because I work with different materials, I am able to take a break and switch from one to another which keeps my working momentum going.
As an independent business owner, what are the challenges you have to face? Do you think Australians value independent brands?
There are definitely challenges of running a creative small business. One of them would definitely be doing everything myself which means it can be hard to have time off but on the other hand, I really enjoy what I do and am grateful for the opportunity. Another challenge would be managing the finances, like making sure there's enough funds to go around for production, materials and paying myself! However, I think I am very lucky to be practising my art in Australia as without my customers and stockists, I wouldn't be able to continue to grow and do what I love for the last 10 years.
We noticed you already had one of our purses so you knew (and liked!) Don Fisher. What do you like the most about our brand?
I love the branding and how clever the designs are! It's so recognisable and irresistible to not own something from your brand.
Thank you so much for your time, Shuh! We really enjoyed having you here with us today and getting to know you and your creative world a bit more.
Do follow Shuh's Instagram account and find her loveliest accessories, ceramics and stationery products at her website!
